Biodynamic Farming: Following the Sun

Biodynamic farming is complex, sometimes hard to explain and sometimes hard to quantify. It involves many areas: preparations, compost, biodiversity and an awareness of the rhythms happening all around us. I want to talk a little about using a Biodynamic calendar and the intention behind our practices during certain periods on the calendar by highlighting the thoughts of Rudolf Steiner and all those who have continued what he started.  Continue »

Macro, Meso and Microclimates

In any given vintage there is talk about the macroclimate but the day-to-day considerations and efforts to farm the best quality fruit deal with the meso and microclimates. The meso and microclimates dictate how each site is farmed, taking into consideration the climactic characteristics that make each site unique. There are three spatial scales that are generally recognized: Macro, Meso and Mircroclimates.  Continue »

Columbia Gorge

Probably one of my favorite place in Oregon is the Columbia Gorge. The fast flowing rivers, the dramatic cliffs, water falls and the forever blue sky’s never cease to take my breath away. As you drive east from Portland the landscape changes from dense conifer to woodland forest then to semi arid scrubland.  Continue »

Grape Berry Development

I’m going to give you a brief update on berry development to date here in Oregon.  Continue »

BLOOM!

July first rolled around and so has summer! The temperatures have been consistently in the 80’s for the last 6 days bringing flowering with it!  Continue »

Growth and Cover Crops

Budbreak finished about 2 weeks ago and we are starting to see some leaves unfold and inflorescence becoming visible.  Continue »